Meet Nickie Little, a graduate from the College of Education who is now enjoying a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher. Little’s journey to becoming a teacher was anything but a straight line. A single parent overcoming obstacles, Little always believed teaching was her calling. Now, thanks to Athens State, she’s living her dream and inspiring young minds every day in her classroom at Skyland Elementary.
Little shares, “Since I was a little girl, it was my teachers that actually inspired me… I always wanted to teach. I just feel like this is my gift, to teach little ones.”
The journey to achieving her teaching certification was not without setbacks. After initially obtaining an Associate of Applied Science at Bevill State and then an Associate of Arts in Pre-Elementary Education, Little faced challenges in finding the right certification program. She eventually turned to Athens State University after running out of funding options and received assistance from a work-study grant.
“Athens was the one to save the day,” Little explains. “It meant everything to me to have the funds for my degree.”
Athens State’s support and guidance gave her the final push she needed, allowing her to stay committed to her dream. Graduating from Athens State in December 2022 was a proud moment for Little. While earning her degree is an inspiration on its own, equally so is the impact she’s making in her classroom. Now, in her fourth year as a certified educator, Little’s love for her students is unmistakable.
“I give more than teaching,” she says.“I bring a nurturing, loving environment to my classroom. It’s more than teaching a curriculum.”
Little’s approach is fueled with creative and innovative techniques that bring joy and excitement to learning. Her students read stories with flashlights, engage in “Mission Possible” learning activities, and have even dressed up as spies to build their reading skills. These activities help foster a lifelong love of learning for her young students, and it’s clear that Little’s creativity doesn’t go unnoticed. In 2023, Little was nominated for Teacher of the Year at Skyland Elementary.
“I was very surprised,” she says.“It was very shocking because this was my second year teaching. It was just music to my ears to hear that they nominated me.”
This recognition reflects the dedication, love, and enthusiasm she brings to her students each day. Little sees herself not only as a teacher, but also as a role model who can guide her students through challenges, just as she has navigated her own.
Even though the odds are against you, you still push through. That’s what I did. That’s what I’m doing with my students, Little explains.
From setbacks to success, Little’s story is a powerful testament of perseverance. She hopes her experience will inspire others to keep pursuing their dreams no matter how difficult the path may seem. The future is bright for Little as she looks forward to launching a K-2nd grade microschool with Primer in August of 2025. Through her own determination and the support of Athens State, Nickie Little is fulfilling her purpose and proving that with the right support, passion, and confidence, anything is possible.
About the College of Education
The mission of the College of Education (COE) at Athens State University is to prepare teacher candidates to become reflective practitioners who are knowledgeable and collaborative professionals. The COE provides quality programs that meet the educational needs of ever-changing student populations. In accordance with our mission, continual assessment-based improvements are being made. Our goal is to provide rigorous yet flexible programs for students that encourage wider skillsets with multiple credentials. Learn more about the COE HERE.